Peer Specialist

Peer Specialists are fully integrated team members who provide individualized services to people receiving services from Advocates Mental Health Division.   Peer specialists promote client self determination and decision making through the use of their own recovery stories and lived experience.  Peer specialists provide expertise and consultation to the entire team to help create a culture in which each client’s point of view and preferences are recognized, understood, respected, honored, validated, and integrated into treatment, rehabilitation and community self-help activities.

At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges. 

We’re a nonprofit, mission-driven organization with a person-centered approach, empowering the individuals we support to make choices, build independence, and live full, meaningful lives. Our work is rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion, and we envision a world where individual differences are appreciated and celebrated.   

At Advocates, we value the ideas, experiences, and contributions of employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming culture where everyone can grow and thrive. 

• →Provide individual and group peer support services.
• →Maintain and distribute current information on community resources related to self-help and recovery.
• →Coordinate and lead informal groups related to peer support, recovery, resiliency, and resources.
• →Advocate for client’s preferences in all decision making arenas.
• →Connect and network with other area providers and individuals.
• →Develop professional relationships with area providers and communicate regularly to ensure all services and resources are being fully utilized.
• →Strictly adhere to Certified Peer Specialist Code of Ethics.

• High School Diploma or equivalent degree.

• Must currently be or have previously been a recipient of the Mental Health Systems Services.

• Must apply to Certified Peer Specialist training within 6 months of job offer and attend training when scheduled.

• Excellent communication skills.

• Must have sensitivity to the needs of the population.

• Must have excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team.

• Demonstrated understanding of and competence in serving culturally diverse populations.

Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.